What should you know about lues syphilis?

Syphilis can pass through sexual contact, including contact with a sore or rash. Early infection may cause a painless sore, swollen glands, or a rash that can involve the palms or soles. Symptoms can fade without the infection being gone, so feeling well does not confirm clearance.

Without treatment, syphilis may later affect the nervous system, eyes, ears, heart, or blood vessels. A test is needed because symptoms overlap with other conditions and some people have no noticeable signs.

Arrange an STI assessment if you have symptoms, a new diagnosis in a partner, or sexual contact that concerns you. STI screening may involve a blood test and, when a sore is present, a sample from the affected area.

Take antibiotic treatment exactly as prescribed and complete the plan. Avoid sexual contact until a clinician confirms when it is safe, and tell recent partners so they can receive confidential advice and testing. Do not self-treat with leftover medicine.

Seek prompt medical care for eye pain or vision change, hearing change, severe headache, confusion, weakness, or difficulty walking. Contact a clinician urgently if you are pregnant or could be pregnant and syphilis is possible, because timely treatment matters for pregnancy care.

Ask which tests are needed, whether the infection is early or longstanding, which antibiotic is appropriate, when follow-up testing is due, and how partners should be notified. Mention medication allergies, pregnancy, and any neurological, eye, or hearing symptoms.